Road Race, Triathalon, Blue Mass, Diapers, GOP, Concert

Here's what's going on in and around Darien this weekend:

• There's a Diaper Drive from 2 to 6 p.m. Friday at Stop & Shop, 385 Connecticut Ave. Why is an organization (called "The Diaper Bank") looking for diapers? "Nearly 30 percent of low-income families cannot afford enough diapers to keep their babies clean, dry and healthy. 'The Diaper Bank is proud to serve families throughout Connecticut, where we give out 1.4 million diapers a year,' said Janet Stolfi Alfano, The Diaper Bank’s executive director. 'We’re keeping babies clean, dry and healthy. We’re also giving parents the opportunity to work. Most childcare providers will not enroll children unless their parents provide a supply of disposable diapers.'” -- from a Diaper Bank news release

• The annual Blue Mass held by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Bridgeport to honor fire, police and rescue workers will be held at noon on Sunday, Sept. 15, at St. Philip Church in Norwalk. A reception immediately following Mass will be held in the "Mansion" on St. Philip Parish grounds.

• On Saturday, the Darien YMCA is holding an open house where the whole family can have fun: "This free community-wide event will be held at 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and is designed for the whole family. It will include boat rides on the Y's catamarans and canoes, a musician, bounce houses, a magician, chair massages, free fitness classes and contests, healthy treats and more. The Y will also unveil an indoor rock climbing wall in the Wellness Center. Be sure to bring workout clothes to try the wall from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and sample classes." -- from the Darien Y newsletter.

• On Saturday, Darien Republicans are planning a grand party at 17 Shipway Rd. It costs $50 in advance or $65 at the door. "Join the RTC and your fellow supporters this weekend on Saturday, September 14th from 5:30 to 7:30 and begin your evening connecting with your candidates in person, enjoy light fare and a stunning view of Noroton Bay.  For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.darienrtc.com." -- from an announcement on Darien Patch

• On Saturday, P.W. Gopal plays and sings at Encounter Church, 988 Post Rd. in Darien. With his concerts, he's trying to raise awareness of human trafficking: "PW Gopal is a nationally touring independent artist brings to life his stories of faith and the human condition. Touring full-time since 2003, P.W. has played over 800 dates sharing the stage with such artists as Jeremy Camp, Bebo Norman, Shawn McDonald, Sara Groves, Bethany Dillon and Derek Webb. [...] Tickets are $10 and are available at the door, or at Encounter Church."

• "The annual ITP Triathlon will be held on Saturday, Sept. 14 from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. (noon).  The triathlon, hosting approximately 500 athletes, will start at Weed Beach. Motorists are advised to expect delays along the race route.  Officers will be positioned along the route to facilitate the flow of traffic." -- from a Darien Police Department news release posted on Darien Patch

• But the ITP Triathalon isn't the only athletic event that will disrupt traffic in town this weekend. Here's the other, on Sunday: "The annual Darien Road Race will be held on Sunday, September 15, 2013 at 1 p.m..  The road race, hosting approximately 500 racers, will start at Pear Tree Point Beach and proceed to Long Neck Point Road, Ring’s End Road, Harbor Road, eastbound on the Post Road, Old Kings Highway South, Andrews Drive, Red Coat Pass, Tory Hole Road, Sunswyck Road, Goodwives River Road, and back to Pear Tree Point Beach. Motorists and residents of the area are advised to expect short-term delays and detours along the race route.  Officers will be positioned along the route to facilitate the flow of traffic and the safety of the runners." -- from a Darien Police news release

• "Live Green Connecticut!" a family-friendly community festival for all ages, takes place Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Taylor Farm Park, 45 Calf Pasture Beach Rd. The festival will feature pony rides, a petting zoo, face painting, live music, SoundWaters and Creatures from the Sea exhibit, Nature Center exhibits, food, beverages, the Ford Go Further Tour, electric cars, exhibits and demonstrations. Admission is free; parking costs $5 and 100 percent of the parkig proceeds goes to Live Green Connecticut!, a non-profit. For more information, visit www.livegreenct.com.